Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso moved to play down the significance of Vinícius Jr’s angry reaction to being hauled off in the club’s meeting with Barcelona.
Real Madrid are of course fresh off a victory to remember over their arch rivals.
After welcoming Barcelona to the Spanish capital for a La Liga clash, Los Blancos dominated en route to a 2-1 triumph.
The aforementioned Vinícius Jr. for his part featured from the off in the fixture, and proved himself a constant thorn in the side of the visitors’ backline.
The Brazilian’s otherwise stellar evening’s work, however, was marred by a moment of petulance.
Upon his number flashing across the 4th official’s board, signalling that Vinícius’ work for the night was done during the 2nd-half, the 25-year-old responded furiously.
After making his way from the pitch shouting and gesturing wildely, the attacker made his way straight down the tunnel at the Santiago Bernabéu.
This is not the first time this season that Vinícius has responded angrily to being substituted.
Speaking to the media post-match, the subject of his star winger’s behaviour was in turn put to Xabi Alonso once more.
The Spanish tactician, though, was quick to ease tensions, in explaining:
“Vini’s reacting after being subbed out? Vini had a wonderful game tonight, and that’s what’s really important. Whatever happened after that, we can talk about it in private, it’s not very important.”
Conor Laird – GSFN
